Day 16: Makin’ a List, Checkin’ it…10,000 Times!

Confession time.

In the last few months I've fallen into a distressing Internet addiction. I regularly swear that I will stay away from these pages, but I get a little bored or tired and suddenly I'm there again. I know I should be reading or writing blogposts, something productive, but again and again I give into my dark compulsion. Afterward when I'm depressed and filled with self-loathing, I make the same promises, knowing that my will isn't strong enough to keep them.

I read lists on the Internet

Probably I see this most on Buzzfeed, but I've noticed them on any other of dozens of “news” sites. I've even started to see lists on mainstream sites like the Los Angeles or New York Times. No matter where, as soon as I see the words “top ten..,” “15 things you don't know about..,” or any number followed by a noun; click, I'm hooked. It is particularly a problem at this time of year, as I can resist finding out little know facts about Christmas, Christmas carols, Christmas movies, Christmas specials, etc.

Here is a list of lists you can find on Buzzfeed right now:

  • 21 Bachelor Pad Tricks that Will up Your Game
  • 15 Things Every Kick-Ass Uncle Knows To Be True, As Told By Jesse And Joey
  • 12 Things All Stage Managers Understand
  • 16 Disney Holiday Specials to Warm Your Heart
  • 27 Versions Of Wham!’s “Last Christmas” Sung By Artists Around The World
  • 14 Books From 2013 Every Music Lover Should Read
  • 17 Miley Cyrus “Wrecking Ball” Ornaments That Are Works Of Christmas Tree Art

OK, you get the point

I tried to figure out why I (and so many others by the look of it) am so attracted to lists. To organize my thoughts I (of course) made a list:

  • A list gives the reader the feeling of learning without the effort of heavy reading.
  • A list helps provide order to a chaotic world.
  • A list provides opportunities for surprise, recognition, and argument, particularly when ratings are involved.
  • A list gives the reader tidbits to share.

Do you like lists? Any idea why?

As always, I welcome your comments

Image: 'January first'

http://www.flickr.com/photos/10953991@N00/2162700587 Found on flickrcc.net